Pruning your plants, trees and shrubs can improve health and appearance; however, if you over do it or don’t prune correctly, you may see unintended results. Following recommendations can help ensure your plants don’t become weak or deformed.
Why Prune Plants and Trees?
There are a variety of reasons to prune your plants and trees. Perhaps you want to shape or restrict growth. Pruning also maintains the overall health of plants and it can enhance flowers or foliage.
What is Pruning?
A successful pruning removes parts of a plant to reduce volume or that are unnecessary for the plant to thrive. For example, you’ll want to remove any dead or broken limbs first and then cut back lateral branches. Pruning in this order can reduce the number of branches that need to be pruned and can help the tree or shrub continue to grow in the right shape.
When Should Pruning take Place?
With spring just around the corner, February is an ideal time to prune and prepare your landscape. It’s no secret that healthy plants keep your garden looking vibrant and lush all year long, and proper maintenance is at the root of healthy, happy plants and trees. If you can’t get to pruning in the early spring, it’s best to wait, since it is not recommended to prune after new growth develops.
What Should be Pruned?
Knowing which plants to prune when is just as critical as following recommended pruning techniques. Some plants need to be trimmed in early spring, after the cold weather is finished, while other plants need to be trimmed later in spring, after they are finished blooming. It’s also important to note some plants should be trimmed throughout the year to maintain a desired shape and size. If you have questions, you can always ask the Prewett, Read & Associates team.